Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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247. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to consider adding fishermen to the critical skills list (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17320/24]

Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Following review and consideration of sectoral submissions on the topic, and further consultation with the relevant stakeholders, I am informed by officials that the occupation of Sea-fisher will be made eligible for the General Employment Permit (GEP) in the coming weeks, with the relevant Statutory Instrument under consideration.

It is planned that access to the GEP will be granted via a quota made available to the sector. The occupation will be subject to a range of criteria, including the standard GEP Minimum Annual Remuneration of €34,000, based on a minimum €16.77 hourly rate and a 39-hour week.

It is not envisaged at this time that the role of fisher will be added to the Critical Skills Occupation List. Critical Skills Employment Permits (CSEPs) are issued for occupations for which there is an enduring skills shortage in the state, the roles are necessary for the functioning of the economy and, typically have an associated degree level qualification. Where the role is not accompanied with a degree level qualification or similar, the minimum annual remuneration for a CSEP rises to €64,000. Submissions can be made by the sector and other stakeholders to add roles to the Critical Skills Occupation List during the next public consultation to review the occupation lists, most recently conducted last year.